Axed Australian Test opener Aaron Finch has been released to play for the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League, but won't return in time for his hometown game in Geelong against Adelaide on Thursday night. Finch was officially left out of Australia's Test side on Thursday morning, less than 12 hours before the Renegades' clash with the Strikers GMHBA Stadium in Geelong. He will however be back to face Hobart on Monday, before returning to the Australian one-day squad as captain when they assemble next Tuesday for their three-match series against India. Dropped allrounder Mitch Marsh will also be free to return for Perth, and will be available to play their match against Brisbane at Optus Stadium on Saturday. Australia's 12th man Peter Siddle has too been relieved of his duties, but will also miss Thursday night's game for the Strikers before returning against the Sydney Sixers on Sunday. Australian Associated Press

Axed Australian Test opener Aaron Finch has been released to play for the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League, but won't return in time for his hometown game in Geelong against Adelaide on Thursday night.

Finch was officially left out of Australia's Test side on Thursday morning, less than 12 hours before the Renegades' clash with the Strikers GMHBA Stadium in Geelong.

He will however be back to face Hobart on Monday, before returning to the Australian one-day squad as captain when they assemble next Tuesday for their three-match series against India.